MUAR: A local man lost over half a million ringgit of his life savings after being duped in an online scam.
Muar OCPD Asst Comm Raiz Mukhliz Azman Aziz said the 44-year-old befriended an individual on Facebook and was offered a sales job.
"The victim was given the opportunity to sell electronic and health products online for a lucrative commission ranging between 10% and 30% of the sales value.
"He was asked to register as an agent through the website provided and to use his own money as capital to fulfil customer orders," ACP Raiz Mukhliz said in a statement on Tuesday (Sept 24).
He said the victim then registered as a sales agent and made transactions to eight different bank accounts, amounting to RM 542,444.
"However, the victim never received any profits and was asked to make further payments but refused," he said, adding that the case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating.
He advised the public to always take precautionary measures when making financial transactions.
"They are also encouraged to use the Semak Mule online service through the website https://semakmule.rmp.gov.my/ before making any payments or online transactions.
"Additionally, downloading applications that can (identify and screen) calls is recommended to reduce the risk of becoming a fraud victim," he said.
